Leg Vein Treatment

Spider veins and varicose veins on the thighs and lower legs are one of the most common cosmetic complaints. Beyond causing concern over their appearance, varicose veins can be painful and make sufferers extremely self-conscious about the appearance of their skin.

What’s the Difference between Spider Veins and Varicose Veins?

Though the terms are commonly used interchangeably, spider veins and varicose veins are actually two different conditions.

Spider veins – also called telangiectasias – are small red, blue, or purple blood vessels that can appear mostly on the thighs, lower legs, and also on the face and chest. These visible veins are mostly caused by a weakening in the valves of the blood vessels, causing them to fill with more blood than usual and become very noticeable under thin layers of skin. Spider veins form just under the outer layers of skin and are not painful.

Varicose veins are very large veins deeper within the skin, often appearing blue or red and bulging. They may be painful and are often raised above the skin’s surface. Varicose veins are also due to a weakening of the valves of the veins, causing blood to back up and engorging the blood vessels. They can cause sufferers to feel a throbbing or cramping sensation in the legs, aching after sitting or standing for long periods of time, swelling, and a general “heavy” feeling in the legs. Varicose veins can also form on the vagina and buttocks during pregnancy.

What Varicose Vein Treatment Options are Available?

There are a number of safe and effective varicose and spider vein removal options. Consulting with your cosmetic dermatologist can help you select the best option for you.

Sclerotherapy utilizes a chemical solution injected directly into the affected veins, causing them to close off and eventually turn unto scar tissue. Varicose veins typically fade several weeks following this procedure, though in some cases several treatments may be necessary.

There is no downtime with sclerotherapy (patients can return to normal activity right after treatment), and patients typically experience no more than mild stinging during the procedure. The treatment is extremely effective at eliminating varicose veins.

Laser treatments. Generally used for spider veins and smaller varicose veins, laser therapy pulses a high-energy laser through the skin to destroy veins and cause them to disappear over a period of several weeks. The treatment involves little pain, no downtime, and is performed quickly in a doctor’s office. Most patients require several treatments spaced 4-8 weeks apart.

Why choose Abadir Associates?

Drs. Dale and Michelle Abadir are passionate about helping men and women look and feel their best, and their knowledge ability helps them guide each of their patients through the process of selecting a treatment and finding a solution to their cosmetic dermatology problems. Their welcoming office and friendly staff help each patient enjoy his or her time at Abadir Associates.

To learn more about spider vein and varicose vein treatment options, call us or contact us online. To learn about treatment options for varicose veins on the face, please read over our facial vein removal information.